Bayport, NY - March 24, 2014 - Suffolk County Legislator Bill Lindsay III recently nominated Bayport resident, Chestene Coverdale, as the Senior Citizen of the Year for the 8th legislative district. The Suffolk County Senior Citizen of the Year Award is given to a person who has enhanced the lives of older residents in Suffolk County through advocacy, leadership, volunteerism, and acting as a role model to all generations.

“Chestene is extremely deserving of this prestigious honor,” said Lindsay III. “She is constantly looking for ways to help her neighbors and improve the lives of all Suffolk County residents.”

In addition to being an educator, philanthropist, wife, mother, and grandmother, Chestene currently serves as the Executive Director of the Greater Sayville Food Pantry, where she has been hosting career workshops, providing counseling, and distributing clothing and food to people in need. Chestene also sits on the Board of Directors for Splashes of Hope, is an active member of the Sayville Rotary and is an educational supervisor of students and teachers at Dowling College.

“Chestene’s an outstanding advocate for all people in Suffolk County,” said Lindsay III. “From her work with the Sayville Rotary to all of her generous efforts at the Greater Sayville Food Pantry, Chestene has shown time and time again that service above self is not only a Rotarian motto, but her way of life. I cannot thank her enough for all that she has accomplished for our community.”

The Greater Sayville Food Pantry serves over 150 people per month in the communities of Oakdale, Sayville, West Sayville, Bayport, Blue Point and Bohemia. Food donations are always needed and welcomed year round, especially during the Spring and Summer months. To make a donation please drop off your food, clothing, or supplies to: 47 Gillete Avenue in Sayville on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Fridays from 9:30AM to 12:30AM.

Chestene is one of eighteen nominees for the Suffolk County Senior Citizen of the Year Award. The recipient of this year’s award will be announced and honored during a May celebration.